Arsenal are reportedly prepared to make a significant move for Barcelona defender Jules Kounde during the January transfer window.
The Gunners have had a solid Premier League campaign but remain six points behind leaders Liverpool, who also have a game in hand over Mikel Arteta’s side.
In the summer, Arsenal made David Raya’s loan deal permanent and signed Mikel Merino and Riccardo Calafiori, while Raheem Sterling and Neto joined on loan from Chelsea and Bournemouth respectively. However, injuries and inconsistent performances have left some summer signings underwhelming, prompting Arteta to seek reinforcements in January to bolster their title ambitions.
Reports from Spain suggest Arsenal have agreed to pay €75m (£62m) for Kounde, with Barcelona president Joan Laporta reportedly willing to facilitate the move as the French international prepares to leave the Camp Nou.
Kounde’s recent performances have raised doubts at Barcelona, and insiders have advised Laporta and sporting director Deco to consider any serious offers.
Arteta is said to be “convinced” that Kounde would be a valuable addition to his squad. Despite being a regular under Barcelona coach Hansi Flick, Kounde is not considered untouchable and could depart if a significant bid, such as Arsenal’s, is received.
Barcelona are reportedly open to letting Kounde go immediately if the €75m offer from Arsenal or other clubs materializes, signaling a potential high-profile departure in the upcoming transfer window.
Arsenal may explore attacking reinforcements as injuries to both Raheem Sterling and Bukayo Saka have sidelined them for “several weeks.”
Former Tottenham manager Tim Sherwood believes Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo would be a perfect fit to step in for Saka in the Arsenal lineup.
Speaking on the Kelly and Wrighty Show, Arsenal legend Wright said: “I think they have to do something about the right wing in terms of finding a replacement down the right wing.”
Sherwood added: “I’ve gone one for them straight away from the top of my head, Semenyo.”
Wright continued: “Wow, again he’s a fantastic player, he did brilliantly again for Bournemouth. I think this is the time for players to step up, Jesus scoring again is great to see. He looks re-energised.”
When asked how Arsenal will cope without Saka, Arteta replied: “I am putting some ideas together. I haven’t got there yet, but I have a few. Then I want to speak with them as well, to understand how we are going to generate that and take it in a positive way. Because we are going to be different.
“Gabby (Martinelli) has played there, Ethan (Nwaneri) has played there, Leo (Trossard) can play there in relation to how that unit moves. Kai (Havertz) can play there, asking him different things. So, We’ll see, try to speak to them as well and understand how they feel about it.”
